Which of the following are advantages of using a high kVp technique?

• A. 1 and 2
• B. 1 and 3
• C. 2 and 3
• D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (D)

High kVp makes the X-ray beam more penetrating and reduces image contrast, which allows you to achieve the needed receptor exposure with much lower mA and shorter exposure times. That lower mA translates directly into less radiation dose to the patient while still producing an adequate image. The higher energy photons penetrate denser tissues more effectively, so you can image thicker or more challenging anatomy without increasing technique to the point of overexposure. At the same time, the contrast is flatter, giving more exposure latitude—the range of exposures that still yield acceptable image quality—so you’re less sensitive to small variations in technique or patient size and don’t have to repeat exams as often. Taken together, these points explain why all three are considered advantages of using a high kVp technique, so the option that includes all of them is correct.